Gemotions

The sun was setting, casting long, distorted shadows across the freshly painted exterior of the house next door. Liam watched from his living room window, a knot forming in his stomach. He’d barely spoken to the woman who was renovating, only exchanged brief greetings. Now, she was a symbol of something he couldn't name.

He’d always felt safe in his home, a place of quiet refuge. That feeling was eroding. He felt a nagging worry, a deep disquiet. He kept the blinds drawn, even though he preferred natural light. He felt a need to remain unseen, hidden away. He poured himself a glass of whiskey, a habit he'd only recently picked up, and felt the alcohol fail to settle his nerves.